Inslee wants special session on roads

OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee says the state may pursue a broad transportation package without funding for a new Columbia River bridge.

Inslee said Tuesday that he wants lawmakers from both parties to come together on a broad plan that would pay for projects around the state. He said he is prepared to call lawmakers back from a special gathering in November in order to get the package swiftly approved.

Inslee had pushed earlier this year for broad package that would include funding for a new Columbia River Crossing. Democrats in the House had approved a plan that would increase the gas tax by 10½ cents. A Republican-dominated coalition in the state Senate rejected efforts to bring the package up for a vote, saying they want to see policy reforms first and expressing concern about the Columbia River proposal.